Category: Black History

African American people, places and events from the history of Omaha, Nebraska.

1898 Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition, 19th century, 20th century, Biographies, Black History, Black people, Law, Near North Side, Politics, Segregation, societyLeave a comment
Silas Robbins (1857-1916), Omaha, Nebraska.

A Biography of Silas Robbins

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a bio of Silas Robbins, the first African American lawyer in Omaha. Continue reading A Biography of Silas Robbins

20th century, Black History, Black organizations, Civic Infrastructure, historic preservation, Lost history, Near North Side, Organizations, Segregation, society2 Comments
North Side YWCA, North 22nd and Grant Street, North Omaha, Nebraska,

A History of the Negro Women’s Christian Association of Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

A social force, culture builder, educational center and powerful advocacy base, the Negro YWCA was vital to African Americans advancement in Omaha. Continue reading A History of the Negro Women’s Christian Association of Omaha

20th century, 21st century, Activism, Black History, Civil Rights Movement, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Near North Side, Organizations, Politics, Segregation, society3 Comments
Omaha Urban League North Side Community Center, 2213 Lake Street, North Omaha, Nebraska

A History of Omaha’s Urban League

Adam Fletcher Sasse

A hallowed history unlike any other organization in the state, the Urban League of Nebraska is committed to, “…lead Nebraska in closing the social economic gap in the African American, other emerging ethnic communities and disadvantaged families in the achievement … Continue reading A History of Omaha’s Urban League

1898 Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition, 19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Architects, Architecture, Black History, Buildings, Economics, Expo Grounds, Historic houses, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Lost history, Near North Side, North 16th Street, Racism, Wealth12 Comments
The Sherman, 2501 N. 16th St., North Omaha, Nebraska

A History of The Sherman Apartments

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a history of one of North Omaha’s most important historical landmarks, The Sherman apartments on North 16th Street. Continue reading A History of The Sherman Apartments

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, 24th and Lake, Architecture, Black History, business, Cafes, Culture, diners, doctors, Economics, Food, historic preservation, music, Near North Side, nightlife, Race riot, real estate, society1 Comment
Blue Lion Center, 2423 N. 24th St., North Omaha, Nebraska

A History of the Blue Lion Center

Adam Fletcher Sasse

The Blue Lion is one of North O’s most iconic buildings, holding business, services and opportunities for a century! Continue reading A History of the Blue Lion Center

20th century, Biographies, Black History, Crime, Economics, Ethnicities & Races, Government, History of Nebraska, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, OPD, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Poverty, Racism, self-published, society2 Comments
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 22 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

In this chapter, Mondo we Langa is quoted saying “…they simply could not let an African man who called police “pigs” get away with that.” Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 22 by Michael Richardson

20th century, Black History, business, Civil Rights Movement, Crime, Education, Ethnicities & Races, Food, Government, Lost history, Near North Side, Neighborhoods, North 24th Street, Organizations, Politics, Racism, Religion, schools, Segregation, society, White flightLeave a comment
The Omaha Bus Boycott was led by the DePorres Club from 1953 to 1954, in Omaha, Nebraska.

A Timeline of the Omaha DePorres Club

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a timeline of a 1950s-era civil rights group in Omaha called the DePorres Club. Continue reading A Timeline of the Omaha DePorres Club

1898 Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition, 19th century, 20th century, Architecture, Black History, Economics, Historic houses, Kountze Place, Lost history, Organizations, White flight, Wrecked buildings2 Comments
The McLain Mansion was at 2214 Wirt Street in the Kountze Place neighborhood.

A History of North Omaha’s McLain Mansion

Adam Fletcher Sasse

Many of Kountze Place’s finest homes are gone now, demolished by indifferent landowners and city planners who are blind to the value of the neighborhood. One of these homes stood at 2214 Wirt Street, and it was clearly one of … Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s McLain Mansion

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Americans, Architecture, Black History, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, Economics, Education, Ethnicities & Races, Government, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Long School, Lost history, Monmouth Park, Near North Side, North Omaha, Politics, Poverty, Race riot, schools, Segregation, society, White flight, Wrecked buildings14 Comments
This is a 1968 pic of a mother and daughter at Saratoga School during a parent night program.

A History of Segregated Schools in Omaha, Nebraska

Adam Fletcher Sasse

There were and are many segregated schools in Omaha, and this is an account of their history. Continue reading A History of Segregated Schools in Omaha, Nebraska

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Black History, Civic Infrastructure, Cuming Street, Ethnicities & Races, Government, Kellom Heights, Lost history, Neighborhoods, North 24th Street, White flight1 Comment
A history of North Omaha's Kellom Heights neighborhood by Adam Fletcher Sasse.

A History of North Omaha’s Kellom Heights Neighborhood

Adam F.C. Fletcher

This is a history of the Kellom Heights neighborhood, including the pioneer era, the school and its redevelopment. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Kellom Heights Neighborhood

21st century, Biographies, Black History, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, North Omaha, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytelling4 Comments
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 18 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

In Chapter 18 of FRAMED by Michael Richardson, the story continues unfolding. Read this original true story thriller from North Omaha today! Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 18 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Black Panthers, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, North Omaha, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytelling2 Comments
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 17 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is chapter 17 of FRAMED by Michael Richardson. It introduces the Congressional action against the Omaha Two, and more. Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 17 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Black Panthers, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, North Omaha, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytellingLeave a comment
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 16 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is FRAMED Chapter 16 by Michael Richardson. In this installment, arrests are made and fingers are pointed – again. Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 16 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Black Panthers, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, North Omaha, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytellingLeave a comment
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 15 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is Chapter 15 of FRAMED by Michael Richardson, covering the day Ed Poindexter was arrested. Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 15 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Black Panthers, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, North Omaha, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytellingLeave a comment
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 14 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

Presented in Chapter 14 of FRAMED by Michael Richardson is a smoking gun! Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 14 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Black Panthers, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, North Omaha, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytellingLeave a comment
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 13 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

In Michael Richardson’s book FRAMED, Chapter 13 exposes detail galore. This chapter shows how! Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 13 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Black Panthers, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, North Omaha, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytellingLeave a comment
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 12 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is Chapter 12 of FRAMED by Michael Richardson. In it, the author explores the role of Duane Peak and the FBI in the resulting coverup. Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 12 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Black Panthers, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, North Omaha, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytelling4 Comments
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 10 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

“Angry Policemen Seek Deadly House Bomber,” screamed the Omaha World-Herald. 25 people in North Omaha were arrested. Here’s the actual list of suspects compiled by the Omaha Police Department. Discover what happened on the day patrolman Larry Minard, Sr. was killed. Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 10 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Black Panthers, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytellingLeave a comment
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 9 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

Adam’s Note: This is Chapter 9 in the series on NorthOmahaHistory.com called Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story. It was written by Michael Richardson. Learn more here.   “I will never ever forgive the Black Panther Party for … Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 9 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytellingLeave a comment
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 8 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is FRAMED Chapter 8 by Michael Richardson, exposing the history of the FBI framing of the Omaha Two. Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 8 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, Near North Side, North Omaha, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytellingLeave a comment
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED”: Chapter 7 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is Chapter 7 of FRAMED by Michael Richardson, detailing the blatant framing of Mondo we Langa and Ed Pointdexter in the years before 1971. Continue reading “FRAMED”: Chapter 7 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black History, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Lost history, Michael Richardson, North Omaha, Poindexter and we Langa, Politics, Race riot, Racism, self-published, storytellingLeave a comment
This is the cover of "Framed: J. Edgar Hoover, COINTELPRO and the Omaha Two Story," a series by Michael Richardson for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

“FRAMED” Chapter 4 by Michael Richardson

Adam Fletcher Sasse

The fourth chapter of FRAMED by Michael Richardson continues detailing the FBI cover-up of Black Panthers in Omaha. Continue reading “FRAMED” Chapter 4 by Michael Richardson

20th century, 24th and Lake, Black History, Book review, historic preservation, music, society, storytellingLeave a comment
Cover of A Thousand Honey Creeks Later by Preston Love, Sr.

NORTH O BOOK REVIEW: “A Thousand Honey Creeks Later: A Life in Music from Basie to Motown” by Preston Love, Sr. 

Adam F.C. Fletcher

This is a book review of the autobiography of North Omaha’s Preston Love. Continue reading NORTH O BOOK REVIEW: “A Thousand Honey Creeks Later: A Life in Music from Basie to Motown” by Preston Love, Sr. 

20th century, 21st century, 24th and Lake, Architecture, Black History, Churches, Culture, historic preservation, Long School, Lost history, Near North Side, Organizations, Racism, Religion, society6 Comments
St. Benedict's parish church and school at 24th and Grant in North Omaha, Nebraska.

A History of North Omaha’s St. Benedict the Moor Catholic Parish

Adam Fletcher Sasse

North Omaha’s Saint Benedict Catholic Church has been a bastion of hope for the Near North Side for almost a century. Here’s their story. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s St. Benedict the Moor Catholic Parish

1898 Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition, Black History, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, Economics, Expo Grounds, Government, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Kountze Place, Lost history, Parks, Politics, society, White flight1 Comment
Kountze Park, North Omaha, Nebraska

A History of North Omaha’s Kountze Park, Once Called Malcolm X Park

Adam F.C. Fletcher

Malcolm X Memorial Park sits in the heart of North Omaha’s Kountze Place. Discover why you don’t hear about it anymore. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Kountze Park, Once Called Malcolm X Park

20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Black History, Culture, Economics, General history, historic preservation, Lost history, Near North Side, Organizations, Poverty, societyLeave a comment
Gene Eppley Boys' Club, North Omaha, Nebraska

A History of the North Omaha Gene Eppley Boys Club

Adam Fletcher Sasse

The North Omaha Gene Eppley Boys’ Club was the cradle of youth engagement for a generation of young men. This is a history of the facility. Continue reading A History of the North Omaha Gene Eppley Boys Club

20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Black churches, Churches, Culture, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Religion, society12 Comments
Goodwill Spring Musical Choirs, North Omaha, Nebraska

A History of Black Churches in Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

Omaha’s tradition of Black churches started less than a decade after the founding of the city in 1865. With de facto segregation the norm in the city by then, African Americans were denied seats in white churches. Not to be without a spiritual home, the city’s pioneer Blacks founded their own places of worship. This is an introduction to Omaha’s historic Black churches. Continue reading A History of Black Churches in Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Black History, Churches, Culture, historic preservation, Near North Side, Politics, Poverty, Religion, society3 Comments
Zion Baptist Church, 2215 Grant Street, North Omaha, Nebraska

History of Zion Baptist Church in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

A leader among the bedrock institutions of North Omaha is Zion Baptist Church. One of the oldest congregations in Omaha, it was founded in 1884 and became the largest Black church in Omaha by 1900. It’s landmark building at 2215 Grant Street was designed by North Omaha native “Cap” Clarence Wigington, and its mission is still distinctly relevant more than 125 years after it was founded. Continue reading History of Zion Baptist Church in North Omaha

Americans, Biographies, Black History, Books, Crime, General history, Historic houses, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, North Omaha, Omaha, Politics, press release, self-published, storytelling, StreetsLeave a comment
This is the cover of North Omaha History: Volume Three by Adam Fletcher Sasse

Dynamic Past, Hope-filled Future: North Omaha History, Volume Three Now On Sale!

Adam Fletcher Sasse

(Olympia, WA: December 1, 2016) The final book of Adam Fletcher Sasse’s series, North Omaha History: Volume Three, is now available from CommonAction Publishing. In the third book of the North Omaha History Series, Adam Fletcher Sasse reveals a lot of the hidden, denied … Continue reading Dynamic Past, Hope-filled Future: North Omaha History, Volume Three Now On Sale!

20th century, 21st century, Architects, Architecture, Black businesses, Buildings, business, Crime, Culture, Economics, Historic houses, Houses, Lost history, Near North Side, Racism, society, Wealth, White flight3 Comments
This is 2060 Florence Boulevard in the 1970s. Photo from the City of Omaha Meyer Collection.

A History of North Omaha’s Burkenroad House aka Broadview Hotel aka Trimble Castle

Adam Fletcher Sasse

The home at 2060 Florence Boulevard has a reputation as a mansion for the social elite; an apartment house; a brothel, a hotel and as apartments again. Here is a history of North Omaha’s Broadview Hotel. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Burkenroad House aka Broadview Hotel aka Trimble Castle

20th century, Black History, Crime, Culture, Government, Lost history, North 24th Street, Racism, Saratoga4 Comments
Mrs. Beverly Wead Blackburn Jones (1937 - 1973) was a youth worker, educator and champion for North Omaha.

A Biography of Beverly Blackburn and a History of the JFK Rec Center

Adam F.C. Fletcher

This is a history of an individual and the short-lived organization she created. It’s a story about the power, purpose and potential of young people in North Omaha, and the constant struggle between the City of Omaha and the Black community. This is a history of Beverly Blackburn (1937-1973) and the JFK Rec Center. Continue reading A Biography of Beverly Blackburn and a History of the JFK Rec Center

20th century, Black History, Culture, Racism, societyLeave a comment
"Omaha, Nebraska: The New Mood Shocks the City" article from LOOK magazine, December 17, 1963. https://northomahahistory.com/look-magazine-article-on-omaha-racism-12-17-1963-oct-4-2016-12-23-pm-1/

“The Negro Faces North. Omaha, Nebraska: The New Mood Shocks the City” by Sam Castan for LOOK magazine

Adam F.C. Fletcher

On December 17, 1963, LOOK magazine included a story about segregation in Omaha. Following is a section of the article; there is a link to a PDF of the story under “Related Articles” that follows. THE NEGRO FACES NORTH OMAHA, NEBRASKA: THE NEW … Continue reading “The Negro Faces North. Omaha, Nebraska: The New Mood Shocks the City” by Sam Castan for LOOK magazine

20th century, Black History, business, Culture, Economics, History of Nebraska, Lost history, North Omaha, Race riot, Racism8 Comments
With Don Davis as Program Director, in 1972, other personalities at North Omaha's KOWH included Erven McSwain, Buddy King, Herman Pearson, Ed Mims, The Magnificent One, and Beverly Blakely.

A History of KOWH, North Omaha’s Radio Station

Adam Fletcher Sasse

In the aftermath of the 1960s riots that ravaged the community, a group of African American investors from North Omaha rallied to invest in technology, and for many, to invest in their home neighborhood. Pulling off a coup, for almost a decade, North Omaha was home to Nebraska’s first radio station and a former bastion of white middle class American culture. Except now it was the home of the city’s Black pride, empowerment and culture. Continue reading A History of KOWH, North Omaha’s Radio Station

21st century, Black History, Crime, Culture, General history, Government, Lost history, Near North Side, North Omaha, Politics, Racism, society7 Comments
This is Ed Poindexter and Mondo we Langa. ©2016 Michael Richardson.

A History of the Case of Rice and Poindexter in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

Omaha, Nebraska, was founded on white supremacy. Since then, both formal and informal forces throughout the city have worked continuously to impose, maintain and expand white supremacy throughout the city, state and nation. The stories of Mondo we Langa and Ed Poindexter are examples of what that looks like. Understood in the context of North Omaha history, it is easy to see they aren’t the only examples; however, they are among the most powerful. Continue reading A History of the Case of Rice and Poindexter in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Americans, Black History, Culture, North Omaha, Politics, society1 Comment
This is a group of historical figures from North Omaha, Nebraska, including Rev. Anna R. Woodbey (1855-1901); James C. Mitchell (1809-1896); Rev. John Albert Williams (1866-1933); Manuel Lisa (1772-1820); Ophelia Clenlans (1852-1907); Dr. Rodney Weed; Vivian Strong (1954-1969); and Robert Strehlow (1862-1952).

People from North Omaha History

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a timeline of people from the history of North Omaha. They include people from political, legal, religious, medical, and other professions who transformed the community in countless ways. There are also creative leaders, sports figures, and others, too. Continue reading People from North Omaha History

20th century, 21st century, Biographies, Black people, business, Crime, Culture, Government, Lost history, Near North Side, Politics2 Comments
Billy Crutchfield and Harry Buford North Omaha Nebraska

A History of Early 20th Century Crime Bosses in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

In a time of mobland gangsters, illegal booze, dirty gambling halls and open prostitution, several African Americans rose high enough in Omaha’s criminal underworld to become the crime lords of North Omaha. Continue reading A History of Early 20th Century Crime Bosses in North Omaha

20th century, 21st century, Black History, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, North 24th Street, society1 Comment
Elks Club Iroquois Lodge 92 2420 Lake Street Omaha, Nebraska

A History of North Omaha’s Elks Hall and Iroquois Lodge 92

Adam F.C. Fletcher

Starting in 1905, the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World, also called the black Elks, met in North Omaha. They were determined to help foster positive social connections, build community and foster growth within Omaha’s African American community. Almost 100 years later, it keeps going. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Elks Hall and Iroquois Lodge 92

20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Black History, business, Crime, Culture, Economics, historic preservation, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Politics, Race riot, society10 Comments
A history of the 24th and Lake Historic District by Adam Fletcher Sasse for NorthOmahaHistory.com. The picture shows the intersection of N. 24th and Lake Streets in North Omaha, Nebraska, circa 1940.

A History of the 24th and Lake Historic District in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

North Omaha is screaming full of history, and the new 24th and Lake Historic District is a tremendous example of how that’s so. After its first developments in the 1870s, this intersection evolved to become a hotbed of the African American community; as well as the heart of the Jewish community; a farm supply area; and much, much more. In 2016, 38 buildings were included in a new listing on the National Register of Historic Places. This article is an introduction to the powerful, poignant past of a large jewel in North Omaha’s historical crown. Continue reading A History of the 24th and Lake Historic District in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Black History, business, Culture, History of Nebraska, Lost history, Racism6 Comments
African American owned newspapers in Omaha, Nebraska

A History of African American Newspapers in Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

North Omaha’s African American culture has grown and changed dramatically since its founding in 1854. One of the main drivers of the culture for more than a century has been the Black media. From the time Omaha’s first Black newspaper was published in 1889 through Shanelle Williams’ continued use of Facebook, Twitter and other social media today to build the African American community in Omaha, Black media has continued to transform the North Omaha community and the city at large. Continue reading A History of African American Newspapers in Omaha

20th century, Black History, Civic Infrastructure, Culture, History of Nebraska, Industry, Lost history, society21 Comments
This is a history of the Belt Line Railway in North Omaha from 1883 to 1987 by Adam Fletcher Sasse for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

A History of North Omaha’s Belt Line Railway

Adam F.C. Fletcher

Almost a decade ago, I stumbled across stories of a railroad that looped around Omaha. Different sources told crazy realities, including conflicting ownership, court cases, and the rise and fall of several neighborhoods in North Omaha. I was fascinated that I saw this track all the time when I was growing up, but I never knew its story, so I started researching. I read articles and pamphlets, books and maps. After that, I started an article on Wikipedia to share what I’d found. Well, as you know, that’s never enough for me. With some recent encouragement from John Peterson, a fine Omaha history writer, I am going to expand here on what I’ve researched and learned about the Belt Line Railway in North Omaha. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Belt Line Railway

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Black History, historic preservation, Long School, Lost history, Neighborhoods, North 24th Street, Politics, Poverty5 Comments
This is Long School at 2520 Franklin Street in North Omaha in the 1890s.

A History of North Omaha’s Long School Neighborhood

Adam Fletcher Sasse

The Long School neighborhood is located in North Omaha from Hamilton Street on the south to Erskine on the North; North 24th on the east and the North Freeway on the west, and it has a total of 30 blocks. Houses started getting built in the neighborhood as early as the 1860s. However, it wasn’t until Long School was built that things really got underway. This is a history of the neighborhood. Continue reading A History of North Omaha’s Long School Neighborhood

20th century, Black History, Culture, Lost history, North 24th Street, society6 Comments
History of the Carnation Ballroom, Adam Fletcher Sasse, NorthOmahaHistory.com

History of the Carnation Ballroom in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

African Americans stepped up to create community for themselves. Since Blacks weren’t allowed to move away from the Near North Side neighborhood, that’s where the community arose. Black churches, restaurants, clothing stores, and entertainment venues filled the North 24th Street strip from Cuming north to Lothrop Streets, and along Lake Street too. Continue reading History of the Carnation Ballroom in North Omaha

20th century, 21st century, Black History, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Omaha Claim Club, Race riot, Racism, society8 Comments
A mob stands outside the Douglas County Courthouse in 1919, waiting to lynch an African American man named Will Brown for a crime he didn't commit.

A History of Mob Violence in Omaha

Adam F.C. Fletcher

Mobs have terrorized Omaha since the city was founded in 1854. Defined as “the use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims,” terrorism was been the weapon of Omaha’s mobs from the beginning. Early on, they were seemingly concerned with horse thieves, claim jumping and break-ins. In more recent times, mobs attacked people in Omaha because of their race and ethnicities. 50 years ago, mobs lashed out at businesses. Notably, there haven’t been any mob terror trials, monuments, or other acknowledgments of the acts of the masses in Omaha throughout its 160+ years of existence. Continue reading A History of Mob Violence in Omaha

20th century, Black History, Crime, General history, Near North Side, schools, society1 Comment
Kellom School in Omaha in the 1910s.

The History of An Unsolved Murder in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

Adam’s note: I’m a little hesitant to share this story, but I’m going to. Bad things happen in communities, and this story is part of North Omaha’s history. I’ve removed family names out of respect for the families involved. In … Continue reading The History of An Unsolved Murder in North Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Black History, business, Crime, Economics, General history, Government, History of Nebraska, Industry, Lost history, Poverty, Public health, Racism, White flight6 Comments

History of Lead Poisoning in North Omaha

Adam F.C. Fletcher

For more than 15 years, the Environmental Protection Agency has been fighting lead poisoning in North Omaha as part of a citywide environmental cleanup focused on the 27-square-miles east of 72nd Street. Continue reading History of Lead Poisoning in North Omaha

20th century, 21st century, Black History, business, Culture, Economics, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Politics, society4 Comments
The Omaha Star building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Photo by Joe Kinney.

History of the Omaha Star

Adam F.C. Fletcher

More than 65 years ago, a newspaper was launched to serve Omaha’s African American community. Coming from a legacy of several Black newspapers before it, the paper was launched by the visionary Mildred Brown and her husband Ed Gilbert. Losing its direct competitors within a decade, The Omaha Star became the city’s Civil Rights media champion, refusing to print negative news and constantly focusing on keeping it positive. The original banner was “Joy and Happiness”, and the only told good news. Continue reading History of the Omaha Star

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Black History, Culture, historic preservation, Kountze Place, Miller Park, Racism, Religion, society32 Comments

History of Churches in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

In its first 75 years, North Omaha was home to no fewer than four Jewish synagogues, six Catholic parishes and 50 Protestant congregations. These churches reflected the community’s diversity, including ethnic churches where only Italian, German, Norwegian, Danish and other languages were spoke. Within 25 years of Omaha’s founding, there were also several Black churches in the neighborhood north of downtown. Following is a history of churches in North Omaha. Continue reading History of Churches in North Omaha

Biographies, Black History, Culture, History of Nebraska, North 24th Street, society, storytelling1 Comment

A Biography of North Omaha’s Dr. Marguerita Washington

Adam F.C. Fletcher

This story begins with the death. On November 2nd, 1989, Mildred Brown passed away. Easily the mother of North Omaha pride, Mildred co-founded The Omaha Star in the late 1930s and ran it by herself for almost 50 years. She promoted the community mercilessly, building pride, power and purpose through her paper, and her death was a massive loss to everyone in North Omaha, especially the African American community. Continue reading A Biography of North Omaha’s Dr. Marguerita Washington

18th century, 19th century, 20th century, Americans, Black History, Economics, Government, History of Nebraska, North Omaha, Omaha, Politics, Poverty, Race riot, Racism, society, White flight7 Comments
This is a visual map of the racial composition of Omaha as of 2010. Green represents African American; orange, Hispanic/Latino; red, Asian American; blue, white. From the Racial Dot Map at https://demographics.virginia.edu/DotMap/index.html

A Timeline of Racism in Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

Race and racism has dominated Omaha has history of movement, organizing and activism for civil rights for African Americans and others that goes almost back to the founding of the city. Following is a timeline of race and racism in North Omaha. Continue reading A Timeline of Racism in Omaha

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Black History, Crime, Culture, Economics, Government, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Omaha, Politics, Poverty, Race riot, Racism, society, White flight4 Comments
Near North Side, Omaha, Nebraska

A History of the Near North Side Neighborhood in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

As far as I’m concerned, the history of Omaha’s Near North Side neighborhood is the richest in all of Omaha. It has been home to working class families, poor people, and the wealthy; northern Europeans, African Americans, and eastern Europeans; Lutherans and Catholics, Jews and Black Muslims; slums, family homes, and mansions; looked like a pioneer town, had country gentleman farms, been a suburb, and had slums; professional offices, warehouses, manufacturing plants, local storefronts, printing presses, training centers, supermarkets and pop-up shops; giant churches and synagogues, and tiny storefront temples and more. So much has happened here, and clearly its story is still being written… Continue reading A History of the Near North Side Neighborhood in North Omaha

20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Benson, Black History, Carter Lake, Culture, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Kountze Place, Minne Lusa, Near North Side, North 24th Street10 Comments
Historic movie theaters of North Omaha, Nebraska

A History of Theatres and Movie Theaters in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

While it has absolutely no active movie theaters today, the North Omaha community has been home to at least 20 (!) movie theaters over the last century. This is a short history of those theaters. Its really incomplete, as information has been hard for me to find. Continue reading A History of Theatres and Movie Theaters in North Omaha

20th century, Black History, History of Nebraska, Politics, Racism, White flight2 Comments
June 1963 4CL civil rights protest Omaha Nebraska

A History of the Citizens Coordinating Committee for Civil Liberties, or 4CL, in Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

“This town is sick… I’m not speaking of open sores, either — nothing as simple as the ghetto on the ‘Near North Side,’ where all but a handful of 30,000 Omaha Negroes live. No, our sickness is in the bloodstream … Continue reading A History of the Citizens Coordinating Committee for Civil Liberties, or 4CL, in Omaha

20th century, Biographies, Black History, Crime, Houses, Near North Side, North 24th Street, Race riot, Racism13 Comments
1969 Greater Omaha Community Action Office guarded by Omaha Black Panthers

A History of the June 1969 Riot in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

While African Americans have known about police racism for more than a century, white people across the US are beginning to acknowledge the effects of legalized harassment, white privilege, systematic discrimination, the school-to-prison pipeline and other forms of white supremacy that constantly plunder communities and the entire nation of its potential, power and purpose. With a vibrant, vital, and obvious story, Vivian Strong must be remembered today. Continue reading A History of the June 1969 Riot in North Omaha

20th century, 21st century, Black History, Crime, Culture, Florence, Kountze Place, Miller Park, Minne Lusa, Near North Side, North 24th Street, North Omaha, Omaha, Omaha Claim Club, Politics, Racism, White flight17 Comments
This is a 1930s era US federal government Home Owners Loan Corporation map from the US Library of Congress. It was found by Palma Joy Strand, a professor at Creighton Law School and the Werner Institute 2040 Initiative at Creighton University.

A History of Redlining in Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

The history of North Omaha includes redlining starting during the 1920s, and being made illegal in the 1960s. This article explores that history, including the context in which it happened and some of the outcomes. Continue reading A History of Redlining in Omaha

21st century, Biographies, Black politicians, History of Nebraska, Politics, Racism1 Comment
Ernie Chambers, Ebony Magazine, April 1968

A Video Biography of North Omaha’s Ernie Chambers

Adam Fletcher Sasse

North Omaha’s Ernie Chambers has been a enlightened, phenomenal and powerful political representative and social leader over the last 40 years. His politics are straight-forward, obvious and spot-on, every single time. He confronts white privilege constantly, challenges injustice regularly and … Continue reading A Video Biography of North Omaha’s Ernie Chambers

19th century, 20th century, 21st century, Black History, Crime, Culture, History of Nebraska, North 24th Street, Politics, Race riot, Racism, White flight11 Comments
This is "A History of African American Politics in Omaha" by Adam Fletcher Sasse for NorthOmahaHistory.com.

A History of African American Politics in North Omaha

Adam Fletcher Sasse

This is a history of African American politics in Omaha beginning in the post-Civil War era, evolving through various struggles for rights and representation. Continue reading A History of African American Politics in North Omaha

20th century, 21st century, Architecture, Black History, Culture, Historic houses, historic preservation, History of Nebraska, Miller Park, North 24th Street, Racism, schools, Streets, White flight44 Comments
Miller Park NEIGHBORHOOD, established 1891 in North Omaha, Nebraska

A History of the Miller Park Neighborhood

Adam Fletcher Sasse

The place where I grew up, Omaha’s Miller Park neighborhood, rushes through my imagination a lot. I want to see it acknowledged, appreciated and accentuated every day. This article is my acknowledgment of the past and contribution to the future. Continue reading A History of the Miller Park Neighborhood